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©2009 The WJG Press and Baishideng. All rights reserved.
World J Gastroenterol. Apr 14, 2009; 15(14): 1786-1787
Published online Apr 14, 2009. doi: 10.3748/wjg.15.1786
Published online Apr 14, 2009. doi: 10.3748/wjg.15.1786
Hepatoxicity associated with weight-loss supplements: A case for better post-marketing surveillance
Ano Lobb, Public Health Consultant, 80 Lepage Rd, Barre, VT 05641, United States
Author contributions: Lobb A interpreted and synthesized the data, and wrote this commentary.
Correspondence to: Ano Lobb, Public Health Consultant, 80 Lepage Rd, Barre, VT 05641, United States. ano.lobb@gmail.com
Telephone: +1-802-2797625
Fax: +1-802-4793280
Received: January 14, 2009
Revised: February 11, 2009
Accepted: February 18, 2009
Published online: April 14, 2009
Revised: February 11, 2009
Accepted: February 18, 2009
Published online: April 14, 2009
Abstract
There is a growing number of case reports of hepatoxicity from the widely marketed weight-loss supplement Hydroxycut, which contains the botanical ingredient Garcinia cambogia. These case reports may substantially undercount the true magnitude of harm. Based on the past experience with harmful dietary supplements, US regulators should assume the more precautionary approach favored by Canada and Europe. Lacking effective adverse event surveillance for supplements, or the requirements to prove safety prior to coming to the market, case reports such as those summarized here assume added importance.
Keywords: Hydroxycut, Dietary supplements, Garcinia cambogia, Liver failure, Weight loss, Super citrimax, Hca-sx